The Highlanders played with sheer determination and focus and led the Stallions 18-5 at halftime.

Nadroga toiled hard to bounce back in the second half but the wonderful combination of halfback Frank Lomani and fly-half Kini Douglas helped Naitasiri to maintain its consistency and retain the challenge trophy.

Lomani, who scored a brace of tries in the challenge, was also named the Man of the Match.

Naitasiri received $5000 for winning the challenge and will face Bainimarama Challenge Shied winners Tailevu in the next challenge.

Tailevu on Friday night snatched the Bainimarama Challenge Shield from Northland with a 11-7 victory.

Former Fiji Futsal rep Mohammed Shalmeen scored a late equalizer and then the winner as defending champion Blues FC came from behind to beat Friends United 3-2 in the opening match of the 2018 Vodafone National Club Championship finals in Suva today.